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BOCRA issues fines for fake phones

Real or not: Regulators across Africa are struggling to enforce type approval standards in their markets PIC ITWEB AFRICA
Real or not: Regulators across Africa are struggling to enforce type approval standards in their markets PIC ITWEB AFRICA

The Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) dished out fines ranging up to P2,000 each to 55 retailers around the country who were found selling substandard and counterfeit communications devices last year.

According to the Authority’s annual report released recently, BOCRA conducted inspections on 169 communication retailers around the country and found 55 of them to be non-compliant, selling devices that were substandard, counterfeit or unauthorised.

BOCRA is responsible for enforcing type approval standards in the country which ensure that all communications equipment used in Botswana is compliant with national standards, covering health and safety, electro- magnetic compatibility, interoperability, and the latest National Radio Frequency Plan. In its inspections last year, BOCRA seized 432 communication devices and dished out penalties not exceeding P2,000 to those selling them.

Editor's Comment
Micro-procurement maze demands urgent reform

Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...

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